by Jeff Greer, USA TODAY Sports

by Jeff Greer, USA TODAY Sports

Teddy Bridgewater will forgo his final year of eligibility at Louisville and enter the NFL draft.

The junior quarterback had planned to decide in the days following Louisville's 36-9 Russell Athletic Bowl win against Miami (Fla.). He returned home to discuss his options with his mother and other close mentors and friends.

ESPN first reported Bridgewater's decision early Wednesday afternoon.

Bridgewater is considered a top candidate to be the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. The Houston Texans, owners of the first selection, hired Penn State coach Bill O'Brien to be their new coach on New Year's Eve.

O'Brien is an offensive specialist who as an assistant with the New England Patriots coached Tom Brady.

The Texans are expected to pick a quarterback.

Bridgewater was 28-8 as the starter at Louisville, including two bowl wins. This season, he threw for 3,970 yards and a Louisville season-record 31 touchdowns. He completed 71% of his pass attempts.